Cycle mechanic

You'll find it useful to have a recognised qualification like the Level 2 Certificate in Cycle Maintenance.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• funding advice
• search for courses

You could get into this job through a bicycle mechanic intermediate apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

You could start as a retail assistant in a bike shop and apply for a role as a trainee mechanic. Your employer may pay for your training.

You could study for technical cycle maintenance qualifications offered by Cytech.

You'll need:

• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• analytical thinking skills
• customer service skills
• the ability to sell products and services
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• problem-solving skills
• the ability to work well with your hands
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Your day-to-day duties may include:

• building a bike from scratch to a customer’s specification
• identifying problems with a bike and discussing solutions with the customer
• estimating the cost of repairs and giving quotes
• carrying out a bike service and safety check
• carrying out repairs and replacing parts
• cleaning, degreasing and lubricating bike parts
• giving advice to customers
• ordering bike parts and keeping a log of stock
• taking bookings for repairs and processing paperwork
• liaising with suppliers and dealers
• attending cycling events to provide repairs and technical support

You could work in a workshop or at a store.

You may need to wear protective clothing.